Sakis Arnaoutoglou questions EU fishing fund distribution in Greece

European Parliament member Sakis Arnaoutoglou has called on the European Commission to investigate the distribution of fishing subsidies in Greece. The inquiry follows reports from industry representatives suggesting that a significant portion of private funding, specifically through LEADER Fisheries and CLLD programs, has been directed toward activities and businesses not directly related to fishing production.

Some industry claims suggest that approximately 90% of private subsidies may have gone to beneficiaries who are not professional fishers. Arnaoutoglou is seeking detailed data and transparency regarding the recipients of funds for the 2014–2020 and 2021–2027 programming periods. He has requested clarification on the mechanisms used to evaluate project eligibility and how the impact of these funds on professional income and employment is measured.

The request comes as the Greek fishing fleet faces challenges including an aging fleet and rising operational costs.